(PUTNAMVILLE) - One inmate from the Putnamville Correctional Facility is dead, one man is on a ventilator and 8 others are under hospital observation.

The Department of Correction is blaming a progressive flu-like virus.

According to a media release, several prisoners began to show flu or pneumonia-like symptoms last week. Inmates have symptoms of fatigue, joint aches, sweats, cough and sore throat. Those in the hospital, are receiving specialty consultation and supportive care.

They were put under observation at the hospital, but after their symptoms worsened, they were transported to the Terre Haute Regional Hospital.

One offender, whose name has not been released, died Friday.

The IDOC is working with the State Health Department and Center for Disease Control to identify the specific causes of the illness.

In the meantime, the staff at the Putnamville Facility is taking a number of precautions including isolation, bleaching units and wearing masks.